The state, like the rest of the country, is facing tremendous economic challenges. Fortunately, there is a candidate for state Senate who has the experience, compassion and understanding to face those challenges: Deb Simpson.

She has a proven record of promoting economic growth. As a representative in the House last year, she supported tax cuts to reduce taxes on businesses by $70 million. She also supported doubling the circuit breaker tax rebate to help reduce the tax burden on property owners.

In addition, she supported legislation to reform the tax code. That bill would have lowered Maine’s income tax rates significantly. Thanks to her hard work, the bill passed the House but failed in the Senate due to partisan gridlock.

She is needed in the Senate to break that gridlock and pass the legislation to give Mainers the tax relief they need.

I urge voters to elect Deb Simpson on Nov. 4.

Reginald Emery Sr., Auburn